Uel Morton, chief executive of Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), is to step down from his role later this year.

After 11 years in the position, he has decided to hand over the reins this summer, following a recruitment process to find his successor, which will start in the coming weeks.

Morton (pictured) has served in chief executive roles in the Scottish food and drink industry for the past 20 years,

He said he has enjoyed his role at the helm of the public body, which promotes the Scotch Beef PGI, Scotch Lamb PGI and Specially Selected Pork brands.

“The decision to step down is not one I have taken lightly,” said Morton. “I have huge pride in the breadth of activities – from marketing and education to industry development, quality assurance and economic analysis – which the small team of QMS staff delivers.

“I have been privileged to play a role in the development of QMS during the past decade and I am 100% confident the organisation will continue to go from strength to strength and rise to every challenge and opportunity in the years ahead.”

Morton intends to retain an active role in the Scottish food and drink industry when he steps down from QMS, including consultancy and non-executive work.

QMS chairman Jim McLaren praised him for his service to the industry. “QMS is very much indebted to Uel for his hard work, commitment and attention to detail over the past 11 years.

“When he steps down later this year he will leave the organisation in a very strong position for his successor to take forward and we wish him every success for the future.”